Discover the Scenic Alligator Hill Trail
Explore the breathtaking Alligator Hill Trail in Empire, Michigan, where stunning views and natural beauty await every hiker.
Alligator Hill Trail in Empire, Michigan, is a stunning hiking destination that offers breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding wilderness. This picturesque trail is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, providing a memorable experience for all who visit.
A brief summary to Alligator Hill Trail
- Stocking Rd, Empire, Michigan, 49630, US
- +1231-326-4700
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and the best light for photography.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the trail.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots, as some sections of the trail can be uneven.
- Check the weather before your hike, as conditions can change quickly in this area.
- Keep an eye out for wildlife, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
Getting There
-
Public Bus
To reach Alligator Hill Trail from downtown Traverse City, start by walking to the nearest public bus stop. Look for the BATA (Bay Area Transportation Authority) bus service. You can catch the 'Empire' route bus that travels towards Empire. Make sure to check the bus schedule for the exact times. Once you board the bus, enjoy the scenic ride which will take you through the beautiful countryside. Get off at the Empire stop, which is closest to the trailhead. From there, it’s a short walk to Stocking Rd where you will find the entrance to Alligator Hill Trail.
-
Bicycle Rental
If you prefer cycling, consider renting a bicycle from one of the local bike rental shops in Traverse City. After renting your bike, head towards M-22 North. Follow M-22, which will take you towards Empire. The ride is about 20 miles, so make sure you have enough water and snacks. As you approach Empire, look for signs directing you to Stocking Rd. Once you arrive at Stocking Rd, you can park your bike and start your hike on Alligator Hill Trail.
-
Walking
If you’re feeling adventurous and up for a long walk, you can walk from Traverse City to Alligator Hill Trail. Start at the downtown area and head south towards M-22. Follow M-22 North for about 20 miles. This will take you through beautiful scenery, including views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding forests. Note that this is quite a long walk, so ensure you have suitable footwear and provisions. Once you reach Stocking Rd, you will find the entrance to the trail where your hike begins.
Discover more about Alligator Hill Trail
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Glen Haven Village
1.6 km
Discover Glen Haven Village, a historical gem in Michigan, showcasing rich maritime heritage with charming architecture and stunning lake views.
Sleeping Bear Point
3.0 km
Sleeping Bear Point: A Natural Wonderland in Glen Arbor, Michigan, Where Sand Dunes Meet Lake Michigan's Pristine Shores.
The Sleeping Bear
4.1 km
Discover the breathtaking Sleeping Bear, a towering sand dune in Glen Arbor, Michigan, offering stunning views and outdoor adventures amidst natural beauty.
Sleeping Bear Bay
5.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Sleeping Bear Bay, a pristine destination in Michigan's natural paradise.
Port Oneida Beach
8.7 km
Explore Port Oneida Beach, a tranquil oasis in Michigan with stunning views, soft sands, and endless outdoor adventures for all ages.
Empire Bluff
11.2 km
Discover the stunning Empire Bluff in Michigan, where breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and beautiful dunes await nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Traverse Bay Tours
13.9 km
Discover Traverse Bay's hidden gems with personalized tours that offer stunning views, local culture, and unforgettable experiences for every traveler.
Platte Plains Trail
17.3 km
Discover the tranquil Platte Plains Trail in Michigan, where stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife create an unforgettable hiking experience.
North Manitou Island Lifesaving Station
26.0 km
Explore the North Manitou Island Lifesaving Station, a historic landmark revealing the rich maritime heritage amidst breathtaking natural beauty.
Clay Cliffs Natural Area: The Leelanau Conservancy
28.8 km
Explore the breathtaking Clay Cliffs Natural Area, a serene nature preserve on the Leelanau Peninsula with stunning views and diverse wildlife.
Traverse Tall Ship Company
32.5 km
Experience the beauty of Traverse City aboard the Traverse Tall Ship Company’s majestic vessels for a memorable sailing adventure on Lake Michigan.
Houdek Dunes Natural Area: The Leelanau Conservancy
32.7 km
Discover the breathtaking Houdek Dunes Natural Area, a serene nature preserve on Leelanau Peninsula, perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying stunning Lake Michigan views.
Hippie Tree
33.0 km
Explore the vibrant Hippie Tree in Traverse City, Michigan, a landmark celebrating creativity, nature, and community spirit amidst stunning scenery.
Aberdeen Stone Cottage
33.1 km
Experience the charm of Aberdeen Stone Cottage, a unique indoor lodging in Traverse City, MI, blending historic elegance with modern comfort for an unforgettable stay.
The Barrel Room
33.1 km
Discover the essence of Traverse City at The Barrel Room, where exquisite wines and ciders meet a vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
Unmissable attractions to see
Glen Lake Beach Park
1.2 km
Experience the natural beauty of Michigan at Glen Lake Beach Park, a tranquil escape for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Ranger Station
1.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, where towering dunes meet pristine Lake Michigan for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Cannery Boathouse Museum
1.7 km
Explore the Cannery Boathouse Museum in Glen Haven, MI, for an unforgettable journey through maritime history with stunning lake views.
Dune Climb
1.8 km
Discover the breathtaking Dune Climb in Michigan's Sleeping Bear Dunes, where adventure meets stunning natural beauty and panoramic lake views.
Dunes Trail
2.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Dunes Trail, a premier hiking destination in Glen Arbor, Michigan, showcasing stunning views of Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail
2.1 km
Explore the stunning Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, a must-visit hiking area in Michigan offering breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage.
Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station Maritime Museum
2.3 km
Explore the maritime legacy of the Great Lakes at the Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station Maritime Museum, where history meets stunning natural beauty.
Sleeping Bear Point Trailhead
2.6 km
Experience the stunning landscapes and diverse trails at Sleeping Bear Point Trailhead, a natural paradise along Lake Michigan's beautiful shoreline.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
2.7 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, where towering dunes meet pristine beaches and endless outdoor adventures await.
Dunes Scenic Overlook
2.8 km
Explore the stunning beauty of Dunes Scenic Overlook in Glen Arbor, Michigan, where nature meets breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.
Sleeping Bear Dunes
2.9 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Sleeping Bear Dunes, a stunning nature preserve with towering sand dunes and pristine Lake Michigan views.
Cottonwood Trail
3.0 km
Experience the beauty of Cottonwood Trail, a hiking paradise in Glen Arbor, MI, surrounded by nature's wonders and scenic views.
Pierce Stocking Scenic Dr
4.0 km
Discover the stunning beauty of Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive in Michigan, a scenic route showcasing breathtaking views and natural wonders.
Sleeping Bear Dunes Overlook
4.8 km
Explore the breathtaking vistas of Sleeping Bear Dunes Overlook, where nature's beauty meets adventure along Lake Michigan's stunning shoreline.
Lake Michigan Overlook
5.0 km
Experience the stunning views and serene atmosphere of Lake Michigan Overlook, a picturesque destination in Empire, Michigan, perfect for nature lovers.
Essential places to dine
Good Harbor Grill
2.6 km
Experience delectable American cuisine at Good Harbor Grill in Glen Arbor, MI - perfect for post-adventure dining with scenic views.
Cherry Public House | Glen Arbor
2.7 km
Savor local flavors at Cherry Public House in Glen Arbor – where craft beer meets delicious cuisine and delightful ice cream.
Bear Paw Pizza & Market
2.8 km
Experience delicious pizza and convenience shopping at Bear Paw Pizza & Market in beautiful Glen Arbor, Michigan.
Blu
2.9 km
Experience fine dining at Blu in Glen Arbor, where New American cuisine meets breathtaking views of Lake Michigan for an unforgettable culinary journey.
Cafe Manitou
5.1 km
Discover delightful American cuisine at Café Manitou in Glen Arbor - a perfect stop for food lovers amidst stunning natural beauty.
Nonna's at The Homestead
5.3 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Nonna's in Glen Arbor - where every meal tells a story of tradition and taste.
Trattoria Funistrada
7.4 km
Indulge in authentic Italian flavors at Trattoria Funistrada in Maple City, where every dish tells a story.
Empire Village Inn
9.0 km
Discover delicious grill cuisine at Empire Village Inn in scenic Michigan - your perfect dining destination after exploring Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Shipwreck Cafe
9.1 km
Experience the charm of Shipwreck Cafe in Empire, MI – where delicious sandwiches meet stunning natural beauty.
Joe's Friendly Tavern
9.4 km
Experience the best of grill cuisine at Joe's Friendly Tavern in Empire – where hearty meals meet friendly service in a cozy atmosphere.
Broomstack Kitchen and Taphouse
13.5 km
Discover delightful local flavors at Broomstack Kitchen and Taphouse in Maple City—where great food meets community spirit.
Stone Oven
23.2 km
Experience the delightful flavors at Stone Oven in Lake Ann - where comfort food meets affordability in a cozy setting.
Platte River Inn
25.1 km
Experience the heartwarming flavors of American cuisine at Platte River Inn – your cozy culinary retreat in Honor, Michigan.
The Cove
25.3 km
Discover The Cove in Leland, MI - where exceptional American cuisine meets breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.
Dick's Pour House
26.3 km
Discover the charm of family-friendly dining at Dick's Pour House in Lake Leelanau - where delicious food meets warm hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Dune Center Store
1.9 km
Discover the Dune Center Store, a charming bookstore near Sleeping Bear Dunes offering literature, maps, and gifts that celebrate the natural beauty of Michigan.
Arabella
2.5 km
Explore Arabella Jewelry in Glen Arbor for stunning handcrafted pieces and stylish women's clothing, capturing the essence of Michigan's beauty.
Bay Wear
2.6 km
Explore Glen Arbor's Bay Wear for unique clothing and exceptional service in a charming boutique setting.
Evolve
2.6 km
Discover a delightful selection of books and unique gifts at Evolve, Glen Arbor's charming bookstore and gift shop.
Anderson's Glen Arbor Market
2.7 km
Discover Anderson's Glen Arbor Market, your go-to grocery store for fresh produce, local beers, gourmet deli items, and delicious pizza takeout in Glen Arbor, MI.
Cherry Republic | Glen Arbor
2.7 km
Discover the best of Michigan’s cherry delights at Cherry Republic in Glen Arbor, where gourmet treats and local beverages await.
Momentum Apparel / CSEA Inc.
2.7 km
Discover Glen Arbor's unique style at Momentum Apparel—your go-to boutique for fashion and local flair.
The Totem Shop
2.7 km
Explore The Totem Shop in Glen Arbor, MI – your one-stop destination for outdoor sports gear, local souvenirs, and sweet treats.
Imagine That Eclectic Art & Gifts
2.7 km
Explore a charming gift shop in Glen Arbor, MI, offering unique art, handmade jewelry, and eclectic treasures that capture the local spirit.
Cottonseed Apparel
2.7 km
Discover unique gifts, stylish clothing, and exquisite jewelry at Cottonseed Apparel, your go-to destination in Glen Arbor, Michigan.
Cottage Book Shop
2.7 km
Explore a treasure trove of literature at the Cottage Book Shop, a cozy bookstore in Glen Arbor, Michigan, perfect for book lovers and casual readers alike.
Coastal Clothing And Accessories
3.0 km
Discover the essence of coastal fashion at Coastal Clothing And Accessories, Glen Arbor's premier destination for stylish apparel and unique accessories.
Grocer's Daughter Chocolate Shop
9.0 km
Discover the taste of artisanal chocolates at Grocer's Daughter Chocolate Shop in Empire, Michigan, where every bite is a celebration of quality and flavor.
Empire Outdoors
9.1 km
Discover outdoor essentials and unique gifts at Empire Outdoors, your go-to store near Sleeping Bear Dunes for all adventure seekers.
Sleeping Bear Gallery
9.3 km
Explore the Sleeping Bear Gallery in Empire, Michigan, where local artistry meets the stunning landscape of the Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lil Bo Bar and Restaurant
33.7 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Traverse City at Lil Bo Bar and Restaurant, where local ingredients meet a lively atmosphere.
Kilkenny's Irish Public House
34.0 km
Immerse yourself in an authentic Irish experience at Kilkenny's Irish Public House with traditional cuisine, drinks, and vibrant entertainment in Traverse City.
Low Bar
34.4 km
Discover Low Bar in Traverse City – a prohibition-style cocktail bar offering handcrafted drinks in a cozy, vintage setting for an unforgettable night out.
Dillinger's Pub
34.4 km
Experience the charm of Dillinger's Pub in Traverse City, where delicious grill favorites meet a vibrant bar atmosphere in a rustic setting.
Union Street Station
34.4 km
Experience the charm of Union Street Station, Traverse City's favorite bar for craft beers, cocktails, and a friendly atmosphere.
Brady's Bar
34.5 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Brady's Bar in Traverse City, where great food, craft beers, and friendly service await every visitor.
The Pub
34.5 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at The Pub in Traverse City, where delicious food, craft beers, and a welcoming atmosphere await.
North Bar
34.5 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and delectable cuisine at North Bar in Traverse City, a must-visit destination for food and drink lovers.
U And I Lounge
34.6 km
Discover the vibrant and welcoming atmosphere of U And I Lounge in Traverse City, where great drinks and friendly service await.
The Parlor TC
34.7 km
Discover Traverse City's vibrant nightlife at The Parlor TC, a cocktail bar and live music venue offering exquisite drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Beacon Lounge
34.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Beacon Lounge in Traverse City, a perfect spot for relaxation and socializing with a diverse drink selection.
SideTraxx Dance Bar
35.5 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and affordable drinks at SideTraxx Dance Bar in Traverse City, a perfect spot for dancing and socializing.
Sail Inn Bar & Grill
36.4 km
Discover the perfect blend of delicious food, refreshing drinks, and stunning views at Sail Inn Bar & Grill in Traverse City, MI.
A-Ga-Ming Golf Resort
56.1 km
Discover the ultimate golfing experience and tranquil retreat at A-Ga-Ming Golf Resort, where stunning landscapes meet luxurious accommodations.
Bucksnort Bar
59.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and warm atmosphere at Bucksnort Bar, the heart of Mesick's culinary scene.
